Reasons why your chameleon might be a dark color:

1. They’re still getting used to their new home

If your new chameleon is still in their first couple days or even two weeks of coming home it’s VERY normal for them to be a dark color as they get used to their new home. Do your best to leave them alone and make sure their enclosure is set up correctly.

2. They’re stressed

If a chameleon is stressed or feeling threatened they will turn a darker color. This can happen if you’re handling them, you’re watching them all of the time, or they don’t have anywhere to hide and feel safe.

3. That’s just their daytime colors

It’s normal for them to be darker during the day. Compared to their nighttime, sleeping colors chameleons can seem dull or dark in color during the daytime. Their nighttime colors are going to be the brightest because their cells are their most relaxed and letting in more light as compared to the daytime when the cells are constricted and letting in less light.

4. They don’t have enough hiding places

If your chameleon is feeling exposed and does not have enough hiding places then they will turn a dark color because they are stressed. Remember any empty space is unused space and it should be hard to find your chameleon in their enclosure. Learn how to attach plants and branches here.

5. They’re trying to absorb heat

This usually happens when your chameleon is basking under their heat bulb. If your chameleon starts opening their mouth underneath their heat bulb then it might be too hot for them.

6. They’re getting ready to shed

Chameleons will turn duller, even darker colors as they get ready to shed. This is normal!